Arizona State University – Global Launch A2 RW: Writing Task

Arizona State University – Global Launch A2 RW: Writing Task 1

Review the Q: Skills for Success and outside articles read so far this session in relation to languages. On the day of the in-class writing, you must write a five-paragraph essay. You must type your writing in a word document and upload it to SafeAssign.

Prompt: Write a 5-paragraph essay about the decline and revival of languages. Make sure you include the factors that contribute to decline, the effects of language decline, and the factors that contribute to language revival.

Requirements: Answer the question entirely. Use all three sources from class in your essay. You need to include a total of 4 citations—2 quotes and 2 paraphrases—with parenthetical citations. Write at least 1.5 pages (double spaced), consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Use APA formatting and citations. Integrate target vocabulary from Q: Skills for Success. Be objective; avoid using “I,” “you,” or “we.” Edit for spelling, grammar, complete sentences, and clarity. Save your document and upload it to SafeAssign by the end of class.

Paper For Above instruction

The decline and revival of languages represent significant phenomena in linguistic and cultural history, reflecting broader social, political, and technological transformations. Languages decline when their speakers diminish or shift to other languages, often due to external pressures such as globalization, colonization, or government policies. Conversely, language revival involves deliberate efforts to preserve and promote endangered languages, driven by cultural pride and identity preservation. Understanding the factors contributing to both decline and revival, as well as the effects on communities and cultures, provides insight into the resilience and vulnerability of linguistic diversity in the modern world.

The decline of languages is primarily attributed to factors such as colonization, language suppression, and globalization. Historically, colonizing powers often suppressed indigenous languages to establish cultural dominance, leading to language loss among marginalized populations. For example, the Māori language experienced decline due to British colonization and subsequent policies that marginalized indigenous speech (Gordon, 2005). Globalization further accelerates language decline by promoting dominant languages like English, which overshadow minority languages in education, media, and commerce (Nettle & Romaine, 2000). Socioeconomic factors also contribute, as younger generations may opt for more dominant languages to improve economic opportunities, resulting in intergenerational language discontinuity (Heller, 2007). These dynamics threaten the survival of many languages globally, leading to a cultural loss that diminishes linguistic diversity.

The effects of language decline are profound, impacting cultural identity, traditional knowledge, and community cohesion. When a language dies, so too does the unique worldview embedded within it—challenging cultural heritage and collective memory (Simons & Fennig, 2018). Many indigenous communities experience a loss of traditional knowledge, such as plants, medicinal practices, and ecological understanding, which are transmitted through language. Furthermore, language death can erode community cohesion and social vitality, as language is often central to cultural rituals and social organization (Krauss, 1992). The decline of languages also results in diminished linguistic diversity, which deprives humanity of different ways of thinking and expressing complex ideas. Therefore, the consequences extend beyond mere communication to encompass broader cultural and ecological impacts.

Despite these challenges, various factors contribute to language revival efforts. Community activism, government policies, and digital technology play crucial roles in revitalizing endangered languages. For instance, linguistic revitalization programs in New Zealand have successfully promoted Māori through educational initiatives, media, and language immersion schools (Hornberger & Trzaska, 2004). Technological advancements, such as mobile apps, social media, and online dictionaries, have made language learning more accessible and engaging, helping younger generations reconnect with their heritage (Hinton, 2018). Additionally, cultural pride and the recognition of linguistic rights motivate communities and governments to sustain and promote endangered languages. These collective efforts have demonstrated that language revival is possible when supported by dedicated policies and community participation, thus fostering cultural resilience.

In conclusion, the decline of languages is driven by external pressures like colonization and globalization, with profound effects on cultural identity and knowledge systems. However, through dedicated community efforts, technological innovations, and supportive policies, many endangered languages are experiencing revival. Preserving linguistic diversity remains vital for maintaining cultural heritage and advancing a more inclusive global society. Continued commitment to language preservation can ensure that future generations inherit a rich tapestry of human expression, ensuring that no language—and the cultural knowledge it embodies—are lost forever.

References

• Gordon, R. G. (2005). Historical linguistics: An introduction. Routledge.
• Heller, M. (2007). Bilingualism and language shift. CSLI Publications.
• Hinton, L. (2018). Digital revitalization and Indigenous languages. Language Documentation & Conservation, 12(Special Issue), 221-235.
• Krauss, M. (1992). The world's languages in crisis. Language, 68(1), 4-10.
• Nettle, D., & Romaine, S. (2000). Vanishing voices: The extinction of the world's languages. Oxford University Press.
• Simons, G. F., & Fennig, C. D. (2018). Ethnologue: Languages of the world (21st ed.). SIL International.
• “History of the Maori Language.” In Language death and language revival, p. 6.
• “When Languages Die.” In Language endangerment and preservation, p. 16.
• iQ Online Reading: Languages in Switzerland. (n.d.).